ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld Rescue is going global with the opening of its first center outside of the United States Abu Dhabi.
The new center will be the first dedicated marine research and rescue center in the Middle East / North Africa (MENA) Region.
The YasSeaWorld Research and Rescue (YSWRR) will be a key contributor to marine-life conservation in the region by conducting research, rescue, rehabilitation, return and education programs.
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“The waters of the Arabian gulf are an important marine ecosystem and integral to the fabric of the Abu Dhabi community. The conservation of their marine animals and ecosystems is vital, and we are excited to be a part of this important effort. Expanding SeaWorld’s nearly 60-year legacy of animal care and conservation globally and having the opportunity to share our knowledge with the region is an honor and a privilege,” said Dr. Chris Dold, Chief Zoological Officer of SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment.
The center, located on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, was developed and will be operated by Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences, and SeaWorld.
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The center includes rescue vehicles and equipment, a rescue clinic, a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital, rehabilitation pools, an onsite lab, and an aquaculture facility.
The center is also equipped with a high-tech auditorium and classrooms to teach the next generation of marine scientists.
YSWRR joins three other U.S. rescue facilities in Orlando, San Antonio and San Diego dedicated to world-class animal care, rescue and rehabilitation.
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Chairman of Miral, His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, commented on this milestone, saying, “We are very proud to begin 2023, the UAE’s Year of Sustainability, with opening the first dedicated marine research and rescue center in the region, Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue,” said chairman of Miral, Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak. “This is a cornerstone in the emirate’s journey of education and conservation, inspiring the next generation of marine scientists to learn more about Abu Dhabi’s impactful long-term vision of protecting our marine wildlife and their habitats. Together with SeaWorld, we will be pushing the limits of science and conservation to become the foremost knowledge hub for marine scientists, not only in the UAE but also in the wider region.”
SeaWorld rescue teams have helped more than 40,000 animals, including whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions, turtles, manatees, otters and a wide range of other marine animals.
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The center is set to open sometime this year.
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